Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Name: Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 4 strips of bacon, chopped; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your cravings with this indulgent Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe that combines creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy bacon for a heartwarming dish. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting meal at home, this classic comfort food will surely become a favorite. Learn how to make it with simple ingredients and easy steps!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-01T16:43:09.190Z

This Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe is a true comfort food classic that combines the richness of cheese with the smoky goodness of bacon. Perfect for any occasion, it's a dish that everyone will love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Bacon Mac & Cheese is an incredibly versatile dish that can be served for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner, hosting a game night, or attending a potluck, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an instant favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike. You can easily double or halve the recipe to accommodate your needs, allowing you to serve a crowd or just a small gathering.

Beyond just being a comforting meal, this Bacon Mac & Cheese can also be customized to fit different tastes. Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. Alternatively, you can experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavor combinations. With such flexibility, it’s no wonder this dish has remained a classic in households across the country.

A Comforting Classic

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a steaming bowl of Bacon Mac & Cheese. This dish brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and home-cooked meals, making it a nostalgic favorite. The combination of tender macaroni enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce evokes feelings of comfort and warmth, perfect for those chilly evenings or whenever you need a slice of happiness. Each bite is a delightful experience, showcasing the beautiful balance between crispy bacon and gooey cheese.

Making your own Bacon Mac & Cheese allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a homemade taste that outshines any store-bought version. With this recipe, you’ll quickly find that the satisfaction of crafting this delicious dish in your own kitchen, coupled with the delightful smells wafting through your home, elevates the meal to a special occasion. It’s the kind of dish that you'll return to time and time again.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture, be sure not to rush the cheese sauce. Allow it to thicken slightly before adding the cheese, which will melt seamlessly, creating a luxurious coating around the pasta. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheese tends to melt better than pre-shredded options, which often contain anti-caking agents. It’s a small detail that can significantly enhance the final dish.

If you're looking to make your Bacon Mac & Cheese even more indulgent, consider adding a breadcrumb topping before baking. Combine breadcrumbs with some melted butter and parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden crust that adds an enjoyable texture contrast to the dish. Not only will this elevate the flavor profile, but it will also create a visually appealing presentation that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bacon Mac & Cheese

Main Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
4 strips of bacon, chopped
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Steps to Make Bacon Mac & Cheese

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, reserving a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.

Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and cooked bacon. Mix well.

Serve

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and, if desired, top with extra cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for a bubbly top. Serve hot!

Enjoy your homemade Bacon Mac & Cheese!

Nutritional Information

Although Bacon Mac & Cheese is indulgent, understanding its nutritional aspects can help you enjoy it in moderation. This dish provides a good source of protein from both the macaroni and bacon, while the cheese adds calcium and essential vitamins. While it’s rich in calories and fat, pairing this dish with a side salad can balance your meal by incorporating greens and additional nutrients.

If you’re concerned about the calorie count, consider using reduced-fat cheese or a combination of cheeses to lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor. Remember, moderation is key when indulging in this comfort food favorite!

Storage and Reheating

One of the great things about making a larger batch of Bacon Mac & Cheese is the leftovers! This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover it loosely with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can bring back some creaminess to the sauce.

If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for a satisfying meal any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon Mac & Cheese is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Additionally, sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans add nutrition and color to your meal, brightening up your plate.

For a complete comfort food experience, serve it alongside garlic bread or stuffed bread rolls, which are perfect for scooping up any extra cheesy goodness. No matter how you decide to serve it, Bacon Mac & Cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone wanting more!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just reheat it in the oven.

→ What type of cheese can I use?

You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, in addition to or instead of cheddar.